U.S. patent number 10,270,254 [Application Number 14/828,035] was granted by the patent office on 2019-04-23 for energy generation interconnection.
This patent grant is currently assigned to SolarCity Corporation. The grantee listed for this patent is SolarCity Corporation. Invention is credited to Brett Alten, Alex Mayer, Sandeep Narla.
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United States Patent |
10,270,254 |
Narla , et al. |
April 23, 2019 |
Energy generation interconnection
Abstract
Methods and apparatus for controlling an interconnection device
may be provided. Sockets of the interconnection device may be
configured to electrically couple to respective energy-generation
modules. In some examples, the interconnection device may include a
connector, memory, and a processor configured to execute
instructions for managing the electrical configuration of the
sockets.
Inventors: |
Narla; Sandeep (San Jose,
CA), Mayer; Alex (San Francisco, CA), Alten; Brett
(Cupertino, CA) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SolarCity Corporation |
San Mateo |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
SolarCity Corporation (San
Mateo, CA)
|
Family
ID: |
58158087 |
Appl.
No.: |
14/828,035 |
Filed: |
August 17, 2015 |
Prior Publication Data
|
|
|
|
Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20170054297 A1 |
Feb 23, 2017 |
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01L
31/02021 (20130101); H02S 40/32 (20141201); H02J
3/381 (20130101); H02S 20/23 (20141201); H02S
10/00 (20130101); H02S 40/36 (20141201); G05B
15/02 (20130101); H02J 3/383 (20130101); H02J
3/386 (20130101); Y02E 10/76 (20130101); H02J
2300/24 (20200101); Y02E 10/56 (20130101); Y02B
10/10 (20130101); H02J 2300/28 (20200101); H01R
29/00 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
H02J
9/06 (20060101); G05B 15/02 (20060101); H02J
3/38 (20060101); H02S 10/00 (20140101); H02B
1/03 (20060101); H02J 1/00 (20060101); G05F
1/67 (20060101); H02S 40/34 (20140101); H01R
29/00 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;307/43-87 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
Other References
International Search Report and Written Opinion dated Oct. 24, 2016
in PCT Application No. PCT/US2016/043921; 10 pages. cited by
applicant .
Non-Final Office Action dated Jun. 27, 2017 in U.S. Appl. No.
14/828,048, filed Aug. 17, 2015. 27 pages. cited by applicant .
Velasco-Quesada, Guillermo et al.; "Electrical PV Array
Reconfiguration Strategy for Energy Extraction Improvement in
Grid-Connected PV Systems"; IEEE Transactions on Industrial
Electronics; Nov. 2009; vol. 56, No. 11; pp. 4319-4331. cited by
applicant .
Storey, Jonathan et al.; "The Optimized-String Dynamic Photovoltaic
Array"; IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics; Apr. 2004; vol. 29,
No. 4; pp. 1768-1776. cited by applicant .
Final Office Action dated Feb. 15, 2018 in U.S. Appl. No.
14/828,048, filed Aug. 17, 2015. 37 pages. cited by applicant .
Solar Power Engineering; "Solar Panels Taking on New and Creative
Shapes"; Jun. 25, 2010 Online Article; p. 1;
<URL:http://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2010/06/solar-panels-taking--
on-new-and-creative-shapes/>. cited by applicant .
International Preliminary Report on Patentability dated Feb. 20,
2018 in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2016/043921; 7
pages. cited by applicant .
Non-Final Office Action dated Oct. 23, 2014 in U.S. Appl. No.
13/553,653, filed Jul. 19, 2012. 38 pages. cited by
applicant.
|
Primary Examiner: Cole; Brandon S
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton
LLP
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An interconnection system, comprising: a frame structure
configured to physically connect a plurality of energy-generation
modules into a solar array, to structurally secure the plurality
energy-generation modules together, and to structurally secure the
solar array to a surface, the frame structure including a number of
sides, a plurality of sockets at corners of the frame structure,
and magnetic plates at the corners of the frame structure, and each
socket of the plurality of sockets being at one of the corners of
the frame structure where two adjacent sides of the number of sides
meet such that each of the plurality of sockets are structurally
embedded with both of the two adjacent sides and configured to
magnetically attract, via the magnetic plates, and electrically
couple to a respective energy-generation module of the plurality of
energy-generation modules to form the solar array; a memory secured
to the frame structure for storing computer-executable
instructions; and a processor secured to the frame structure
configured to access the memory and execute the computer-executable
instructions to at least: identify a total number of the plurality
of energy-generation modules electrically coupled together at one
of the plurality of sockets, the plurality of energy-generation
modules forming the solar array; identify a first electrical
configuration of the solar array that includes the plurality of
energy-generation modules; receive electrical performance
characteristics of at least one energy-generation module of the
solar array; determine, based at least in part on the electrical
performance characteristics and an optimal energy output amount, a
second electrical configuration for the solar array; and configure
electrical connectivity of the plurality of sockets in any
combination of series and parallel arrangements based at least in
part on the second electrical second electrical configuration for
the solar array.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the configured combination of
series and parallel arrangements of the plurality of sockets is
different from a second combination of series and parallel
arrangements of the plurality of sockets that was configured prior
to receipt of the electrical performance characteristics.
3. The system of claim 2, wherein the second combination of series
and parallel arrangements is less efficient than the configured
combination of series and parallel arrangements associated with the
configured electrical connectivity of the plurality of sockets.
4. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for measuring
the electrical performance characteristics of the at least one
energy-generation module.
5. The system of claim 1, further comprising a communication device
configured to receive information from a second interconnection
system.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the communication device receives
the information over a wireless network.
7. An energy-generation interconnection device, comprising: a frame
structure configured to physically connect a plurality of
energy-generation modules into a solar array, to structurally
secure the plurality of energy-generation modules together, and to
structurally secure the solar array to a surface, the frame
structure including a number of sides, a plurality of sockets at
corners of the frame structure, and magnetic plates at the corners
of the frame structure, and each socket of the plurality of sockets
being at one of the corners of the frame structure where two
adjacent sides of the number of sides meet such that each of the
plurality of sockets are structurally embedded with both of the two
adjacent sides and configured to magnetically attract, via the
magnetic plates, and electrically couple to a respective
energy-generation module of the plurality of energy-generation
modules; a memory secured to the frame structure for storing
computer-executable instructions; and a processor secured to the
frame structure configured to access the memory and execute the
computer-executable instructions to at least: identify a total
number of the plurality of energy-generation modules electrically
coupled together at one of the plurality of sockets, the plurality
of energy-generation modules forming the solar array; identify a
first electrical configuration of the solar array that includes the
plurality of energy-generation modules; receive electrical
performance characteristics of at least one energy-generation
module of the solar array; determine, based at least in part on the
electrical performance characteristics and an optimal energy output
amount, a second electrical configuration for the solar array; and
configure electrical connectivity of the plurality of sockets in
any combination of series and parallel arrangements based at least
in part on the second electrical second electrical configuration
for the solar array.
8. The device of claim 7, wherein the energy-generation module
comprises a photo-voltaic panel, a wind-generated energy source, or
a hydro-electric energy source.
9. The device of claim 7, further comprising a plurality of
connection devices comprising at least one of a relay or a switch,
each connection device of the plurality of connection devices
configured to connect the plurality of sockets for configuring the
electrical connectivity.
10. The device of claim 7, wherein the first electrical
configuration of the plurality of sockets comprises a first
combination of series and/or parallel arrangements of the plurality
of energy-generation modules.
11. The device of claim 10, wherein the second electrical
configuration of the plurality of sockets comprises a second
combination of series and/or parallel arrangements of the plurality
of energy-generation modules that is different from the first
combination of series and/or parallel arrangements.
12. The device of claim 7, wherein the optimal energy output amount
is determined based at least in part on properties of an energy
inverter electrically coupled to at least one of the
energy-generation interconnection device or one of the plurality of
energy-generation modules.
13. The device of claim 7, further comprising means for receiving
information from a second energy-generation interconnection
device.
14. The device of claim 13, wherein the second energy-generation
interconnection device is configured to be electrically coupled to
at least one of the plurality of energy-generation modules.
15. A method for managing connections between energy-generation
modules electrically coupled to sockets of an interconnection
device including a frame structure, the frame structure configured
to physically connect the energy-generation modules into a solar
array, to structurally secure the plurality of energy-generation
modules together, and to structurally secure the solar array to a
surface, the frame structure including a number of sides, a
plurality of sockets at corners of the frame structure, and
magnetic plates at the corners of the frame structure, and each
socket of the plurality of sockets being at one of the corners of
the frame structure where two adjacent sides of the number of sides
meet such that each of the plurality of sockets are structurally
embedded with both of the two adjacent sides and configured to
magnetically attract, via the magnetic plates, and electrically
couple to a respective energy-generation module of the plurality of
energy-generation modules to form the solar array, the method
comprising: identifying a total number of the plurality of
energy-generation modules electrically coupled together at one of
the plurality of sockets, the plurality of energy-generation
modules forming the solar array; identifying a first electrical
configuration of the solar array that includes the plurality of
energy-generation modules; receiving electrical performance
characteristics of at least one energy-generation module of the
solar array; determining, based at least in part on the electrical
performance characteristics and an optimal energy output amount, a
second electrical configuration for the solar array; and
configuring electrical connectivity of the plurality of sockets in
any combination of series and parallel arrangements based at least
in part on the second electrical second electrical configuration
for the solar array.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the combination of series and
parallel arrangements comprises a series arrangement of the
plurality of energy-generation modules when an output factor
associated with the second electrical configuration for the solar
array identifies a voltage requirement.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein the combination of series and
parallel arrangements comprises a parallel arrangement of the
plurality of energy-generation modules when an output factor
associated with the second electrical configuration for the solar
array identifies a current requirement.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein the combination of series and
parallel arrangements comprises a parallel arrangement when at
least one of the plurality of energy-generation modules has dropped
below a threshold level of energy production.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/828,048,
filed on Aug. 17, 2015 entitled "SELF-CONFIGURING PHOTO-VOLTAIC
PANELS," the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by
reference as if fully set forth herein.
BACKGROUND
In recent years, climate awareness and the cost of energy has
increased to the point that many consumers have begun to install
renewable energy generation systems at both residential and
non-residential locations. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, for
example, have become relatively popular and can be connected to an
inverter for converting the energy into a usable source for the
location. However, most of these PV systems includes PV panels that
are statically connected and hard-wired to one another. As such, if
conditions at the location, or energy demands/requirements from a
grid or the inverter, change, the PV systems may not be equipped to
handle this. Additionally, connection devices that can be used to
connect multiple panels into an array may not be able to adapt to
changes in physical configuration or instances when panels of the
array degrade or fail.
BRIEF SUMMARY
In the following description, various embodiments will be
described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and
details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding
of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one
skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without
the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be
omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being
described.
According to one embodiment, an interconnection system is
described. In some examples, the interconnection device may
comprise a connector that includes a plurality of sockets, a memory
for storing computer-executable instructions, and a processor
configured to access the memory and execute the computer-executable
instructions. In some cases, each socket of the plurality of
sockets may be configured to electrically couple to a respective
energy-generation module of a plurality of energy-generation
modules. Additionally, the processors may at least receive
electrical performance characteristics of at least one
energy-generation module and/or configure electrical connectivity
of the plurality of sockets in any combination of series and
parallel arrangements based at least in part on the electrical
performance characteristics.
In some aspects, the configured combination of series and parallel
arrangements of the plurality of sockets may be different from a
second combination of series and parallel arrangements of the
plurality of sockets that was configured prior to receipt of the
electrical performance characteristics. The second combination of
series and parallel arrangements may be less efficient than the
configured combination of series and parallel arrangements
associated with the configured electrical connectivity of the
plurality of sockets. Additionally, the system may comprise means
for measuring the electrical performance characteristics of the at
least one energy-generation module. The system may also comprise a
communication device configured to receive information from a
second interconnection system. Further, the communication device
may receive the information over a wireless network.
According to another embodiment, an energy-generation
interconnection device is described. The device may comprise a
connector that includes a plurality of sockets, a memory for
storing computer-executable instructions, and a processor
configured to access the memory and execute the instructions to at
least manage electrical configurations of the plurality of sockets.
In some examples, the energy-generation module may comprise a
photo-voltaic panel, a wind-generated energy source, or a
hydro-electric energy source. The device may also comprise a
plurality of connection devices comprising at least one of a relay
or a switch, where each connection device of the plurality of
connection devices may be configured to connect the plurality of
sockets for configuring the electrical connectivity. Additionally,
in some cases, the processor may be configured to identify a first
electrical configuration of the plurality of sockets, receive
electrical performance characteristics of each energy-generation
module, determine, based at least in part on the electrical
performance characteristics and an optimal energy output amount, a
second electrical configuration for the plurality of sockets,
and/or configure electrical connectivity of the plurality of
sockets based at least in part on the determined second electrical
configuration.
In some examples, the first electrical configuration of the
plurality of sockets may comprise a first combination of series
and/or parallel arrangements of the plurality of energy-generation
modules. And, the second electrical configuration of the plurality
of sockets may comprise a second combination of series and/or
parallel arrangements of the plurality of energy-generation modules
that is different from the first combination of series and/or
parallel arrangements. Additionally, the optimal energy output
amount may be determined based at least in part on properties of an
energy inverter electrically coupled to at least one of the
energy-generation interconnection device or one of the plurality of
energy-generation modules. In some examples, the device may
comprise means for receiving information from a second
energy-generation interconnection device. Further, the second
energy-generation interconnection device may be configured to be
electrically coupled to at least one of the plurality of
energy-generation modules.
In another embodiment, a method for managing connections between
energy-generation modules electrically coupled to sockets of an
interconnection device is described. In some examples, electrical
performance of a first configuration of the energy-generation
modules may be measured. Additionally, an anticipated performance
may be calculated based at least in part on one or more different
configurations. Also, if the anticipated performance of at least
one different configuration is more optimal than the electrical
performance of the first configuration of the energy-generation
modules, the first configuration of the energy-generation modules
may be reconfigured to a respective different configuration.
In some examples, the respective different configuration may
comprise a series arrangement of the energy-generation modules when
an output factor associated with the anticipated performance
identifies a voltage requirement. Additionally, the respective
different configuration may comprise a parallel arrangement of the
energy-generation modules when an output factor associated with the
anticipated performance identifies a current requirement. In some
cases, the respective different configuration may comprise a
parallel arrangement when at least one of the energy-generation
modules has dropped below a threshold level of energy production
and/or the configuration may comprise a combination of series and
parallel connections of the energy-generation modules.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The detailed description is set forth with reference to the
accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a
reference number identifies the figure in which the reference
number first appears. The use of the same reference numbers in
different figures indicates similar or identical items.
FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram illustrating an example
architecture and environment for controlling smart
energy-generation devices as described herein, according to at
least one example.
FIG. 2 is another simplified block diagram illustrating at least
some features associated with controlling a smart interconnect
device as described herein, according to at least one example.
FIG. 3 is another simplified block diagram illustrating at least
some additional features associated with controlling the smart
interconnect device as described herein, according to at least one
example.
FIG. 4 is another simplified block diagram illustrating at least
some additional features associated with controlling the smart
interconnect device as described herein, according to at least one
example.
FIG. 5 is another simplified block diagram illustrating at least
some additional features associated with controlling the smart
interconnect device as described herein, according to at least one
example.
FIG. 6 is another simplified block diagram illustrating at least
some additional features associated with controlling the smart
interconnect device as described herein, according to at least one
example.
FIG. 7 is another simplified block diagram illustrating at least
some features associated with controlling a smart energy-generation
panel as described herein, according to at least one example.
FIG. 8 is another simplified block diagram illustrating at least
some additional features associated with controlling the smart
energy-generation panel as described herein, according to at least
one example.
FIG. 9 is another simplified block diagram illustrating an example
architecture for implementing the smart interconnect device and/or
the smart panel in connection with a service provider as described
herein, according to at least one example.
FIG. 10 is a simplified flow diagram illustrating an example
process associated with controlling the smart interconnect device
described herein, according to at least one example.
FIG. 11 is a simplified flow diagram illustrating an example
process associated with controlling the smart panel described
herein, according to at least one example.
FIG. 12 depicts a simplified block diagram of a computing system
for implementing some of the examples described herein, according
to at least one example.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In the following description, various examples will be described.
For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details
are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the
examples. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the
art that the examples may be practiced without the specific
details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or
simplified in order not to obscure the examples being
described.
Examples of the present disclosure are directed to, among other
things, energy-generation connection devices. In some examples, an
energy-generation connection device may be a smart interconnect
device (smart interconnection device) designed to connect one or
more energy-generation modules, nodes, panels, cells, etc. in such
a way that the electrical configuration of each connected
energy-generation module are easily connected and/or changed. In
other words, a system that controls the energy-generation
connection device may receive and/or identify a change in
environmental conditions, and dynamically and/or remotely optimize
the electrical configuration of the connected modules, perhaps
based on the environmental conditions. For example, the electrical
configuration of the modules may have included some particular
combination of series and parallel, and that configuration may be
changed to all series, all parallel, or some other combination of
series and parallel.
In some examples, the configuration may be changed to match an
output requirement (e.g., limitations of the inverter, or the like)
or to optimize the output of the array based at least in part on a
range, setting, or efficiency standard. In some examples, the
energy-generation modules may be PV panels or other sources of
energy that can be connected, and the smart interconnect device can
connect any number of PV panels. The energy-generation modules may
also be any type of distributed energy-generation source that can
be connected, controlled, and/or configured. For example, the
modules may be any combination of solar, wind, hydro-electric, or
stored energy (e.g., batteries) sources. Further, multiple smart
interconnect devices may be used to create an array of modules
(e.g., panels) that can all be controlled in aggregated modular
fashion, where each smart interconnect device may be configured to
communicate with one another. In some examples, the smart
interconnect device may also be configured to structurally secure
the panels of the array together and/or secure the array to a
surface, such as a roof. Additionally, in some examples, the
devices may be used to connect modules in any conceivable
configuration without regard for the electrical connection, and
without expecting the connection to change dynamically. In other
words, the devices may enable a static configuration that was not
determined until the installation. In this way, the smart
interconnect devices may enable installation of modules on the fly
that are suitable for particular inverters without first defining
the output requirements of the system.
In other examples, the energy-generation connection device may be a
smart panel (e.g., a PV panel) designed to connect to one or more
other panels (smart panel or otherwise) in such a way that the
electrical configuration of each connected energy-generation panel
may be changed. Similar to the smart interconnection device noted
above, the smart panel may be configured or self-configured to
change the electrical configuration of the connected modules,
including its own configuration. For example, if the smart panel
were connected to another panel, the smart panel may be able to
change the electrical configuration between itself and the other
panel from series to parallel or from parallel to series.
Similarly, if the smart panel were connected to another smart
panel, the two smart panels would be able to communicate with one
another and either one of them could control the electrical
configuration of the group (connected panels). Additionally, any
number of smart panels could be connected to each other and/or to
other non-smart panels as desired. As such, the aggregate voltage
and/or amperage of the array could be changed to optimize the
output, adapt to environmental conditions, and/or mange degraded or
failed panels that are part of the array of connected panels, much
like the way that the smart interconnect would be able to optimize
the output of any (or a subset) of the modules that are
interconnected.
Smart connection devices (e.g., smart interconnects and/or smart
panels) may be configured with one or more computing/control
systems including at least processors, memory, and/or communication
devices. The communication devices may be configured for
communicating with other smart connection devices and/or a server
accessible over a network (e.g., the Internet or other public or
private networks). Further, in some examples, a gateway device may
be located at the location (e.g., the location of the smart
connection devices and energy-generation panels) and may be
configured to facilitate communication between the smart connection
devices and the server. Essentially, the gateway device may route
signals from the smart connection devices to the server, and vice
versa. In some examples, environmental condition changes and/or
performance changes may be reported to a remote server. Remote
(e.g., at the server) and/or local (e.g., at the device) diagnostic
checks may be performed to identify current working conditions or
operational data of the system. As such, performance anomalies,
failed modules, and/or changed weather conditions may be identified
remotely or locally. In some examples, signals may be sent to the
smart connection devices periodically and/or based on a trigger
(e.g., a request) to request operational information, and
diagnostic tests may be performed on the results returned to the
server (or servers). As such, modules or other subsets of the
system may be monitored, tested, and/or reconfigured without
physically visiting the location of the system.
Additionally, the smart connection devices may be able to
communicate with one another to discover the layout of the array
(e.g., number of panels, topology/arrangement of panels, etc.) and
determine an optimal electrical connectivity scheme to maximize the
total output. The smart connection devices can intelligently switch
panel connectivity (parallel arrangements and/or serial
arrangements) in real-time or upon request. For example, if cloud
cover obscures portions of a solar farm, the smart connection
devices can, in real-time, determine an optimal configuration for
the entire array and change the connectivity between the panels to
continually optimize performance. In some examples, reconfiguring
the electrical connectivity in real-time may include performing the
reconfiguration substantially immediately after receiving the
environmental conditions (e.g., cloud or other obstruction cover,
degraded devices, failed devices, updated inverter or other output
requirement, etc.) and/or without receiving a request to
reconfigure (e.g., from a user, from a server, etc.). In other
words, the smart connection device may receive a signal identifying
an environmental condition change, determine a new configuration,
and reconfigure the connectivity of the connected panels, without
physically re-arranging the panel positions.
FIG. 1 shows example location 100 where one or more smart
connection devices may be installed. In this example, residential
building 102 may be equipped with array 104 of PV panels installed
on the roof. However, as desired, array 104 may be installed on any
part of building 102 and/or may be in any geometric configuration
(e.g., square, rectangular, "L" shaped, etc.). In some examples,
array 104 may be made of any combination of smart PV panels 106,
smart interconnection devices 108, and/or standard (e.g.,
non-smart) PV panels. The cross-hatched pattern of smart panel 106
and the other panels illustrates that the panels may be configured
with a plurality of electrically connected PV cells (e.g., the
panel may be a frame that supports the PV cells) and provides one
or more electrical outputs (voltage and current) for the panel
based at least in part on the aggregate energy generated by the
cells.
In some examples, array 104 may be electrically connected to
inverter 110 and/or metering device 112. Inverter 110 may be
configured to receive direct current (DC) electricity from array
104 and convert it to alternating current (AC) electricity for
residence 102 (e.g., to provide electricity to appliances or other
electronic devices at location 100). In some examples, inverter 110
may require a particular voltage output or range of voltage output
from array 104. As such, if inverter 110 is updated or changed, the
output requirements may change. As described, smart interconnect
device 108 and/or smart panel 106 may be configured to communicate
with one another and/or to detect the configuration of array 104.
In this way, when conditions change (e.g., new inverter, weather
changes, etc.), total output (voltage and/or current) of array 104
may be dynamically changed in real-time. The new voltage and/or
current may be optimized for the new conditions.
In some examples, an array of panels may be installed on a roof (or
other location) of a building. The panels may be placed in such a
way that they fill up the available space without any consideration
for the output requirements at the location. Using smart
interconnect devices 106 and/or smart panels 108 as described
herein, the array (e.g., through wired or wireless communication
modules of smart devices 106, 108) may be able to communicate with
gateway device 114 and/or service provider computer 116 through one
or more networks 118. Once installed, service provider computers
116 may be configured to provide instructions to smart devices 106,
108 to change, redirect, or otherwise optimize the electrical
output of the array. Additionally, service provider 116 may
periodically (or based on a trigger) run diagnostic tests on and/or
measure the electrical performance of the array. Measurements may
be performed by local or remote metering devices (e.g.,
multi-meters, volt meters, or the like that are configured with
terminals coupled to the sockets and/or modules of the system.
Using communication with service provider computers 116 and/or
based at least in part on logic implemented by smart devices 106,
108, the electrical configuration of the panels may be dynamically
updated at any time to accommodate changing conditions (failed
panels, faulty wiring, cloud cover, tree cover, animal
interference, etc.). As such, the output of a single module (panel)
of array 104 may be turned off, deactivated, or otherwise routed
around to isolate the modules effect on array 104. Additionally,
portions of modules may be controlled to provide more
granular/modular control of array 104. For example, strings or
individual PV cells may be turned off, turned on, reconfigured to
series or parallel, or the like.
FIG. 2 shows example array 200 that includes six PV panels
202(A)-202(F) (collectively, "panels 202") connected together by a
pair of smart interconnect devices 204, 206. In this example, smart
interconnect devices 204, 206 may enable all six PV panels 202 to
be electrically coupled and also dynamically updated. As such, if
the maximum possible voltage output is desired (or required), each
of PV panels 202(A)-202(F) may be electrically configured to be
connected in series. Alternatively, if the maximum possible
amperage output is desired (or required), each of PV panels
202(A)-202(F) may be electrically configured to be connected in
parallel. Additionally, as desired, any combination of series and
parallel arrangements may be utilized (configured by smart
interconnect devices 204, 206) to provide the desired output.
In some examples, smart interconnect devices 204, 206 may be
communicatively connected to each other via electrical cabling 208,
which may be integrated into the panels, or separately provided or
routed between or behind the panels, for example. These cables can
carry signals, power, or both. However, in other examples, smart
interconnect devices 204, 206 may be connected via a wireless
connection. Either way, devices 204, 206 may communicate with one
another to identify/determine the number of connected PV panels
202, identify/determine the geometric configuration of PV panels
202, and/or change the electrical connections between PV panels 202
in to order to facilitate changes in the electrical output.
Additionally, in some examples, the electrical output may be
provided to an inverter via one of PV panels 202 (e.g., one of PV
panels 202 may be originally configured as the output source) or
directly from one of smart interconnect devices 204, 206 (e.g., one
of smart interconnect device 206 may be originally configured as
the output source) via electrical wire 210.
Using smart interconnect devices 204, 206 with array 200, smart
interconnect devices 204, 206 and/or a remote service provider may
be able to monitor the efficiency of array 200. For example, at a
nominal voltage and current output, array 200 would generally
operate efficiently. However, if conditions change, the efficiency
of array 200 may decrease. As such, smart devices 204, 206 and/or
the service provider may be configured to increase the efficiency
by changing the output voltage and current. Some potential
variables for determining the optimization of array 200 may include
the location or existence of any string-level inverters, and their
respective input requirements. Voltage and current may also be
regulated by DC/DC inverters connected to each smart interconnect
device 204, 206. The updated efficiency may be obtained by changing
the electrical connection arrangement (e.g., the number of panels
in parallel versus the number of panels in series) of array 200. In
some examples, smart devices 204, 206 may enable operation of array
200 as a multi-nodal network that attempts to always find the
optimal operational efficiency (voltage and current output). In at
least one example, a Monte Carlo simulation may be executed on a
current configuration of array 200 to determine the optimal
configuration. The optimal configuration (which may be based at
least in part on tolerances of the string inverters) may then be
implemented by controllers of smart devices 204, 206. Conceptually,
array 200 could be considered a grid that could have multiple
directions of input and/or output energy, as well as multiple
combinations of series and parallel connections. Additionally, in
some examples, only two panels (or some number less than all) may
be in communication with each other and/or with devices 204, 206.
While, in other examples, all of the panels may be in communication
with one another and/or with devices 204, 206 (e.g., in a
master/slave relationship with devices 204, 206. Yet, in other
examples, individual devices 204, 206 may communicate with one
another in a non-hierarchical (e.g., mesh) network utilizing any
known protocols (e.g., Zigbee or the like).
FIG. 3 shows example interconnect device 300 that is connected to
four different PV panels 302(A)-302(F) (collectively, "panels
302"). As shown here, PV panels 302 can connect to smart
interconnect device 300 at respective corners. However, one of
ordinary skill in the art would understand that this is just one
example of many, and that the form factor of smart interconnect
device 300 (e.g., the specific locations of device 300 that
physically connect with panels 302) is independent of the dynamic
functionality that smart interconnect device 300 provides. Still,
using interconnect device 300 of FIG. 3 as an example, PV panels
302 may connect at the corners. Each PV panel 302 may have a
positive and a negative terminal for electrically connecting to
other PV panels 302, inverters, and/or one or more interconnect
devices 300.
In some examples, smart interconnect device 300 may also be
configured with positive and negative terminals at each corner (or
anywhere else). Each corner (or connection location) of smart
interconnect device 300 may also be configured with a socket
configured to receive respective PV panels 302. In some
embodiments, each socket may be electrically connected to every
other socket and/or to one or more input/output cables 304, 306.
However, in some embodiments, there may be some sockets that are
not connected to others such that not all sockets are always
connected. For example, some bare minimum number of connections may
be desired, and the interconnection devices may be configured with
any number or configuration of connections from the bare minimum to
complete connection (e.g., all sockets connected) based at least in
part on the needs of the system or the design. Devices with less
than all connections will limit the configurability of the system
but will make the interconnection device less expensive to
manufacture. Further, each of the electrical connections may be
configured with a relay, a switch (e.g., solid-state or the like),
or any other actuating devices (Mosfets, simple mechanical
contactors, gas/chemical actuated devise, etc.) for opening/closing
connections between individual connected panels 302. As such, by
controlling the relays, the electrical connections may be
dynamically changed without disconnecting or manually rewiring or
replacing PV panels 302. This permits optimum performance until the
damaged or otherwise underperforming PV component is repaired.
FIG. 4 shows another example interconnect device 400, with more
internal detail than interconnect device 300. Devices can be used
to connect two or more panels, depending on the specific panel
design and system requirements. For example, smart interconnect
device 400 includes one or more positive and negative sockets 402,
404 for receiving PV panel terminals, input/output terminals 406
for receiving/providing electricity to other panels or interconnect
devices and/or for communicating (via powerline communication) with
other systems (e.g., other interconnect devices with other
connected panels), and at least one wireless radio 408 for
potentially communicating with a gateway device, a server, and/or
other smart connection devices. Additionally, in some examples, the
smart interconnect device may include control module 410 configured
to control the relays (switches) in order to optimize the output as
desired.
In some cases, control module 410 may include memory 422 and one or
more processors 424. Memory 422 may be configured to store
computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more
processors 424, cause control module 410 to change the electrical
connectivity (arrangement) of the panels in order to optimize the
output of the system. In some examples, memory 422 may store
instructions for operating system 426 and/or logic for implementing
communication module 428 and/or relay control module 430.
Communication module 428, when executed by one or more processors
424, may be configured to communicate with other smart interconnect
devices and/or smart panels. Once the communication is established,
smart interconnect device 400 may be able to receive information
about the system topography, connected panels, environmental
conditions, panel/system health, etc. through communication module
428. Additionally, once information has been received through
communication module 428, control module 410 may be able to
determine an appropriate and/or optimal configuration of the
connected PV panels/systems via relay control module 430.
Additionally, once the desired configuration is determined, relay
control module 430 may be configured to provide instructions for
changing the electrical connectivity of the panels by adjusting the
relays (switches) of smart interconnect device 400.
In some cases, control module 410 may configured to receive input
conditions for configuring the array of panels connected to smart
interconnect device 400. The first input condition may include
boundary conditions that identify appropriate end voltage and end
current for the array (e.g., the array may be configured to not
exceed 600 Volts and 10 Amps). The second input condition may be
system-to-system conditions, such that each smart interconnect
device 400 in the array can communicate their individual
configurations (and voltage current outputs). Before each smart
interconnect device 400 of the array physically connects with other
smart interconnect devices of the array, fault/safety checks may be
performed to ensure that the optimized configuration will not
exceed the boundary conditions. In some examples, smart
interconnect device 400 can be utilized to implement rapid shutdown
(e.g., modular-level shorting) of each connected panel. As such,
metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) may be
utilized as the switches/relays within smart interconnect device
400.
Additionally, in some examples, utilizing smart interconnect device
400, an array of panels may be built with an excess of panels such
that any inverter can be attached, and the configuration of the
output of the array can be optimized dynamically to meet the input
limitations of the inverter. In this way, two stages (one for
boosting the voltage and another for converting to AC) may not be
needed. Additionally, a fixed voltage may be guaranteed by the
array, independent of the number of panels installed in the array.
New and/or upgraded inverters may then be installed at the location
(even if they have different voltage and current limitations), and
the physical configuration and/or number of panels installed in the
array will not need to changed. It should be noted that a
four-panel connector can be used to connect two, three, or four
panels by simply turning off the unused sockets.
FIG. 5 shows two different example arrays 500, 502, each configured
differently using smart interconnect devices as described (e.g.,
each with four corner-connection sockets). In example array 500,
all nine panels A-I may be configured in any combination of serial
or parallel arrangements as desired. For example, array 500 may
originally be configured with each panel A-I in series. However, if
clouds cover panels B, C, E, and F, the smart interconnect devices
may identify this environmental change, determine a more optimal
configuration, and change the relay configurations of each
interconnect device to achieve a different arrangement (e.g., A, D,
G, H, and I in series, with B, C, E, and F in parallel).
Alternatively, in another example, the system (e.g., the aggregate
logic of each smart interconnect device in the array) may determine
that panel E has failed and is no longer operational. As such, the
system may decide to bypass panel E, by controlling the relays to
configure an arrangement with panels A, B, C, D, F, G, H, and I in
series. In this example, the system (array) may be configured for
output to a single inverter at 504.
Much like with array 500, in example array 502, the six panels A-F
may be configured in any combination of series or parallel, as
desired. Additionally, in some examples, the output may be provided
to two different inverters at 506, 508. As such, in some examples,
the system may configure panel D to provide energy to the first
inverter through 506. However, at a later time, the system may
change the output of panel D so that it provides energy to the
second inverter through 508. In this way, total control of the
output voltage and amperage of the array (or set of arrays) may be
attained utilizing the smart interconnect devices. For example, if
each of the two inverters requires a particular voltage, but one
sub-array (e.g., panels A-D) is not able to provide the particular
voltage to the first inverter due to environmental conditions
(e.g., panels C and D are covered by a cloud), the system can
reroute the generated energy so that panels A and B are added in
series to the second sub-array (e.g., panels E and F) to provide
energy to the second inverter.
FIG. 6 shows two different example arrays (strings) 600, 602, each
configured with eight panels A-H. While rectangular smart
interconnect devices (e.g., shown in FIG. 5) and octagonal smart
interconnect devices 604, 606 (e.g., shown here in FIG. 6) are
shown, any shapes may be built to accommodate any number and/or
shape of panels. In example arrays 600, 602, much like above, each
of panels A-H may be configured into any combination of series or
parallel arrangements. Additionally, the arranged configurations
may be changed dynamically and/or in real-time based at least in
part on detected environmental conditions or output requirements.
Additionally, as shown in FIG. 6, different shaped panels (e.g.,
panel A and panel B are different shapes) can be combined without
consideration of inter-panel configuration to form a string, thus
simplifying installation. In other words, any shaped panels may be
used, as appropriate, to cover an area (e.g., a roof) without
needing each panel to conform to a standard size or shape. In some
embodiments, a technician may be able to visit a solar installation
site where a roof of unknown shape is located. In this example, the
technician may be able to use panels of different shape and size to
fit the roof with panels connected by interconnection devices 604,
606 to maximize space or wattage of the system.
FIG. 7 shows example smart panel 700. While much of the discussion
above has been with respect to a smart interconnect device
configured to optimize the output of an array of PV panels, similar
functionality may be achieved with smart panels, such as smart
panel 700. For example, smart PV panel 700 may be configured to
support a plurality of connected PV cells. As such, each smart
panel 700 may be able to provide a particular amount of energy as
output on its own. However, smart panel 700 may also be configured
to electrically couple with one or more other panels (e.g., other
smart panels, other non-smart panels, and/or smart interconnect
devices). As shown in FIG. 7, the four corners of smart panel 700
may be configured to couple with other panels; however, any number
of couplings and any location of smart panels 700 may be configured
to facilitate the coupling. Some panels may be configured with
male-end couplings and/or female-end couplings to enable a variety
of different physical connection configurations.
In some examples, smart panel 700 may also be configured with
internal wiring (e.g., similar to the smart interconnect device 400
of FIG. 4. The wiring may be configured with relays (switches) or
other connector devices capable of reconfiguring the other panels
that may be coupled to smart panel 700. In order to bypass a panel
in a configuration, each panel 700 may be configured with a single
wire (and relay) from input to output in such a way that the other
connected panels can bypass a faulty panel that is connected. When
a bypass is desired, all relays may be opened except for the relay
that closes the wire to from the input to the output of the panel.
In this way, the electrical connection between the previous panel
and next panel can be opened without the electricity running
through faulty panel 700 at all. Additionally, the smart panel may
be configured with control module 702 configured to optimize the
output of smart panel 700 and/or array of connected panels. In some
cases, control module 710 may include memory 722 and one or more
processors 724. Memory 722 may be configured to store
computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more
processors 724, cause control module 710 to change the electrical
connectivity (arrangement) of connected panels in order to optimize
the output of smart panel 700. In some examples, memory 722 may
store instructions for operating system 726 and/or logic for
implementing communication module 728 and/or relay control module
730.
Communication module 728, when executed by one or more processors
724, may be configured to communicate with other smart interconnect
devices and/or smart panels. Once the communication is established,
smart panel 700 may be able to receive information about the system
topography, connected panels, environmental conditions,
panel/system health, etc. through communication module 728.
Additionally, once information has been received through
communication module 728, control module 710 may be able to
determine an appropriate and/or optimal configuration of the
connected panels via relay control module 730. Additionally, once
the desired configuration is determined, relay control module 730
may be configured to provide instructions for changing the
electrical connectivity of the panels by adjusting the relays
(switches) of smart panel 700.
FIG. 8 shows example configuration 800 of four different smart
panels 802(A)-(D) (collectively "smart panels 802"). In some
examples, smart panels 802 may be configured such that they have
corresponding sockets for easy connection with other smart panels
802. For example, smart panel 802(A) may have a socket for
connecting to other smart panels 802 on the bottom right corner,
802(B) may have a socket for connecting to other smart panels 802
on the bottom left corner, and 802(C) may have a socket for
connecting to other smart panels 802 on the top right corner. As
such, when smart panel 802(A) is attached to smart panel 802(B) in
the configuration 800 shown here, the two panels may become
electrically and/or communicatively coupled. Similarly, when smart
panel 802(A) is attached to smart panel 802(C), they may also
become electrically and/or communicatively coupled. In some
examples, the smart panels 802 may include male-end and/or
female-end couplings so that they physically attach to one another.
However, in other examples, smart panels 802 may magnetically snap
together, in which case external plates may be positioned such that
when the two panels magnetize to one another, the plates line up
and are able to connect electrically. Further, smart panels 802 may
include radios and/or network interface cards for communicating
with one another, with a gateway device, and/or with a server. In
some examples, not all connected panels may communicate with one
another. For example, panels 802(A)-(D) may all be connected;
however, only a subset of the panels may communicate with one
another and/or with a server/gateway device.
FIG. 9 shows example architecture 900 for controlling smart
interconnect devices and/or smart panels. As described herein,
example architecture 900 includes smart interconnect devices 902,
smart panels 904, service provider computers 906, and/or gateway
devices 910 connected via one or more networks 912, according to at
least one example. In architecture 900, smart interconnect devices
902 and/or smart panels 904 may communicate directly with one
another (e.g., utilizing wired connections or the like) or they may
utilize networks 912 (or other networks) to communicate and/or
interact with one another. In some aspects, the logic for
optimizing the smart connection devices may be performed locally at
each smart device 902, 904, or it may be performed by one or more
service provider computers 906. In this way, the smart devices may
provide information (e.g., current configurations, environmental
conditions, etc.) to service provider computers 906 and configure
the electrical connections of the connected panels based at least
in part on instructions received from service provider computers
906.
Service provider computers 906 may, in some examples, communicate
with smart devices 902, 904 through gateway device 910. As such,
service provider computer 906 may provide control signals to
gateway device 910 for controlling smart devices 902, 904. In some
examples, aggregate logic may be utilized to determine a total
output of an array that includes one or more smart interconnect
devices 902 and/or smart panels 904. This aggregate logic may be
implemented locally (e.g., by each smart device 902, 904), by
service provider computers 906, or by gateway device 910 (or some
other local processor that can communicate with each smart device
902, 904 of the array). As such, gateway device 910 may act as a
local controller and may manage aggregate data collected from
individual smart devices 902, 904 of each array. Further, in some
examples, a single array may be logically divided into sub-arrays
(chunks) and each sub-array may be optimized individually, as
desired.
In some examples, networks 912 may include any one or a combination
of many different types of networks, such as cable networks, the
Internet, wireless networks, cellular networks and other private
and/or public networks. As described above, smart interconnect
device 902 and smart panel 904 may each be configured with control
module 914, 916, respectively. Control modules 914, 916 may be
responsible for controlling the output of an array of panels
connected to the either smart interconnect device 902 (or an array
of panels with at least one smart interconnect device 902) or smart
panel 904 (or an array of panels with at least one smart panel
904).
Service provider computers 906 may be any type of computing devices
such as, but not limited to a server computer, a personal computer,
a smart phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a thin-client
device, a tablet PC, etc. In some examples, service provider
computers 906 may be in communication with smart devices 902, 904
via networks 912 and/or through gateway device 901, or via other
network connections. Additionally, service provider computers 906
may be part of a distributed system.
In one illustrative configuration, service provider computers 906
may include at least one memory 918 and one or more processing
units (or processor(s)) 920. The processor(s) 920 may be
implemented as appropriate in hardware, computer-executable
instructions, firmware, or combinations thereof.
Computer-executable instruction or firmware implementations of
processor(s) 920 may include computer-executable or
machine-executable instructions written in any suitable programming
language to perform the various functions described.
Memory 918 may store program instructions that are loadable and
executable on processor(s) 920, as well as data generated during
the execution of these programs. Depending on the configuration and
type of service provider computers 906 and/or smart devices 902,
904, memory 918 and/or memory of smart devices 902, 904 may be
volatile (such as random access memory (RAM)) and/or non-volatile
(such as read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, etc.). Devices 902,
904, 906 may also include additional storage (e.g., storage 922),
which may include removable storage and/or non-removable storage.
Additional storage 922 may include, but is not limited to, magnetic
storage, optical disks, and/or tape storage. The disk drives and
their associated computer-readable media may provide non-volatile
storage of computer-readable instructions, data structures, program
modules, and other data for computing devices 902, 904, 906. In
some implementations, the memory of the devices (e.g., memory 918
or the memory of smart devices 902, 904) may include multiple
different types of memory, such as static random access memory
(SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or ROM.
The memory, the additional storage, both removable and
non-removable, are all examples of computer-readable storage media.
For example, computer-readable storage media may include volatile
or non-volatile, removable or non-removable media implemented in
any method or technology for storage of information such as
computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules,
or other data. The memory and the additional storage are all
examples of computer-readable storage media. Additional types of
computer-readable storage media that may be present in user devices
902, 904, 906 may include, but are not limited to, PRAM, SRAM,
DRAM, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology,
CD-ROM, DVD or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic
tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or
any other medium which can be used to store the desired information
and which can be accessed by devices 902, 904, 906. Combinations of
any of the above should also be included within the scope of
computer-readable storage media.
Alternatively, computer-readable communication media may include
computer-readable instructions, program modules, or other data
transmitted within a data signal, such as a carrier wave, or other
transmission. However, as used herein, computer-readable storage
media does not include computer-readable communication media.
Devices 902, 904, 906 may also contain communications connection(s)
(e.g., communication connections 924) that allow devices 902, 904,
906 to communicate with other smart devices, a stored database,
another computing device or server, user terminals and/or other
devices on the networks 912. Devices 902, 904, 906 may also include
I/O device(s) (e.g., I/O device 926), such as a keyboard, a mouse,
a pen, a voice input device, a touch input device, a display,
speakers, a printer, etc.
Turning to the contents of memory 918 in more detail, memory 918
may include operating system 928 and one or more application
programs or services for implementing the features disclosed herein
including at least control module 930 and interface module 932. In
some cases, control module 930 may be configured to determine
appropriate configurations for the electrically connected panels of
smart interconnect devices 902 and/or smart panels 904. For
example, control module 930 may receive environmental conditions
and current configuration information, and utilizing that
information (and/or some output requirements or thresholds), may
determine appropriate electrical connection arrangements (e.g.,
combinations of series and/or parallel) for connected PV panels.
Once determined, control module 930 may provide control signals
back to smart devices 902, 904 for implementation. In some
examples, interface module 932 may be configured to provide a user
interface to one or more user devices. For example, interface
module 932 may communicate with one or more user devices to receive
user-defined configuration information for controlling smart
devices 902, 904. In this way, a user of the smart devices may set
thresholds, rules, and/or configuration settings for smart devices
902, 904.
Gateway device 910 may also be any type of computing device such
as, but not limited to, a router or other computing device
configured to share information between two or more
network-connected devices. In some examples, gateway device 910 may
be in communication with smart devices 902, 904 and/or service
providers 510 via networks 508, or via other network
connections.
FIGS. 10 and 11 show example flow diagrams of respective processes
1000 and 1100 for controlling smart devices to optimize output, as
described herein. Processes 1000 and 1100 are illustrated as
logical flow diagrams, each operation of which represents a
sequence of operations that can be implemented in hardware,
computer instructions, or a combination thereof. In the context of
computer instructions, the operations represent computer-executable
instructions stored on one or more computer-readable storage media
that, when executed by one or more processors, perform the recited
operations. Generally, computer-executable instructions include
routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and the
like that perform particular functions or implement particular data
types. The order in which the operations are described is not
intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the
described operations can be combined in any order and/or in
parallel to implement the processes.
Additionally, some, any, or all of the processes may be performed
under the control of one or more computer systems configured with
executable instructions and may be implemented as code (e.g.,
executable instructions, one or more computer programs, or one or
more applications) executing collectively on one or more
processors, by hardware, or combinations thereof. As noted above,
the code may be stored on a computer-readable storage medium, for
example, in the form of a computer program comprising a plurality
of instructions executable by one or more processors. The
computer-readable storage medium is non-transitory.
In some examples, one or more processors (e.g., processors 424) of
smart interconnect device 400 of FIG. 4, may perform method 1000 of
FIG. 10. Method 1000 may begin at 1002, where an interconnect
device (e.g., smart interconnect device 400) or a server computer
in communication with smart interconnect device 400 may measure the
electrical performance of a first configuration of one or more
sockets or modules connected to the interconnection device. For
example, each socket may be coupled to a PV panel, and may be
configured for one of parallel or serial connectivity with an
adjacent (or other connected) PV panel. As such, the first
configuration may identify a particular arrangement of series
and/or parallel connections between PV panels connected to the
smart interconnect device or part of an array of PV panels at least
indirectly connected to the smart interconnect device. As such, a
measurement may be taken of the performance of the array or string
of panels and/or of the output of the system. Performance
measurements may identify current electrical characteristics of the
system (e.g., voltage, current, power, resistance, impedance,
etc.). In some examples, the system and/or individual modules
(panels) may be measured at night (e.g., when not collecting solar
energy) or at other times while not producing energy. Additionally,
in some examples, output of a single module or circuit may be
turned off or otherwise deactivated so as to isolate the modules
effect on performance of the system. The electrical performance
characteristics may identify a level of performance (e.g., healthy,
degrading, a percentage of full performance, etc.) of each
individual PV panel or of the entire array connected to the smart
interconnect device. Additionally, the electrical performance
characteristics may identify environmental changes such as cloud
cover or other obstructions to the connected panels
At 1004, the smart interconnect device or server may calculate
anticipated performance of the system based on one or more
different configurations of the system. For example, the device or
server managing the configurations of the system may simulate any
number of different possible configurations of the system, and then
calculate the performance (anticipated) for each of those
particular different configurations. In some examples, a
calculation may be performed for every possible configuration given
the connected set of operational modules (e.g., those connected to
the interconnection device). However, in other examples, only a
subset of the possible configurations may be tested (calculated).
Thus, an anticipated performance of any configuration may be an
expected level of output voltage or current given a simulation
and/or mathematical calculation of that configuration. For example,
if a system has three PV panels in series, the first configuration
may be set to have all three panels in series. Thus, the electrical
performance of this configuration may be measured at 1002. Then, at
1004, several calculations may be performed to determine
anticipated performance for configurations with the three panels in
parallel, with one or more panels disconnected, or with some
combination of series and parallel arrangements.
At 1006, the smart interconnect device or server may reconfigure
the system (change the relays internally or send a signal to the
interconnection device to have the relays changed) to a new
configuration that matches a particular different configuration if
the anticipated performance for that particular different
configuration is better (more optimal or desired based at least in
part on the inverter being used) than the measured performance of
the first configuration. In some examples, the different
configuration with the best performance may be selected (i.e., the
system will be reconfigured to match that particular configuration)
or some other different configuration. Selection of the appropriate
different configuration (for reconfiguring the system) may be based
at least in part on inverter constraints, external factors, or
customer/designer preference. Further, the determination may be
based at least in part on the electrical performance
characteristics and/or an optimal energy output amount. The optimal
energy output amount may be determined based at least in part on
inverter requirements, grid requirements, best practices, settings,
ranges, or efficiency standards.
FIG. 11 shows an example flow diagram for method 1100 for
controlling a smart energy-generation panel (e.g., a smart PV
panel), as described herein. The one or more processors (e.g.,
processors 724) of smart PV panel 700 of FIG. 7 may perform method
1100 of FIG. 11. Method 1100 may begin at 1102 where a smart panel
(e.g., smart panel 700) may identify a total number of additional
energy-generation panels (e.g., other PV panels) that are
electrically coupled together to form an array. For example, if
four panels are coupled together to form an array of PV panels, the
smart panel may identify that there are three other panels, and
that the array is a four-panel array. At 1104, the smart panel may
identify a first electrical configuration for the array. For
example, the smart panel may identify that all four panels are
connected in series. At 1106, the smart panel may receive
performance characteristics of the energy-generation modules in the
array. As noted, the performance characteristics may identify a
level of performance (e.g., healthy, degrading, a percentage of
full performance, etc.) of each individual PV panel or of the
entire array.
At 1108, the smart panel may determine a second configuration. The
determination may be based at least in part on the electrical
performance characteristics and/or an optimal energy output amount.
The optimal energy output amount may be determined based at least
in part on inverter requirements, grid requirements, best
practices, settings, ranges, or efficiency standards. The best
practices, setting, and/or ranges may be provided by an
installation crew, a user (e.g., homeowner), a programmer or
account administrator, or the like. In some examples, the grid
requirements may be received from a utility company that requires a
particular amount of output to the grid. Further, the inverter
requirements may be known based at least in part on a make and/or
model of the inverter. At 1110, the smart panel may configure the
electrical connectivity of the sockets of the smart panel based at
least in part on the second configuration. In other words, the
configured arrangement of the connected panels may be changed to
change and/or optimize the output of the array.
FIG. 12 is a simplified block diagram of computer system 1200
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Computer
system 1200 can be used to implement any of the computer
systems/devices (e.g., smart interconnect device 400, smart panels
700, gateway devices 910, and/or service provider computers 906)
described with respect to FIGS. 1-9. As shown in FIG. 12, computer
system 1200 can include one or more processors 1202 that
communicate with a number of peripheral devices via bus subsystem
1204. These peripheral devices can include storage subsystem 1206
(comprising memory subsystem 1208 and file storage subsystem 1210),
user interface input devices 1212, user interface output devices
1214, and network interface subsystem 1216.
In some examples, internal bus subsystem 1204 can provide a
mechanism for letting the various components and subsystems of
computer system 1200 communicate with each other as intended.
Although internal bus subsystem 1204 is shown schematically as a
single bus, alternative embodiments of the bus subsystem can
utilize multiple buses. Additionally, network interface subsystem
1216 can serve as an interface for communicating data between
computer system 1200 and other computer systems or networks (e.g.,
the networks 912 of FIG. 9). Embodiments of network interface
subsystem 1216 can include wired interfaces (e.g., Ethernet, CAN,
RS232, RS485, etc.) or wireless interfaces (e.g., ZigBee, Wi-Fi,
cellular, etc.).
In some cases, user interface input devices 1212 can include a
keyboard, pointing devices (e.g., mouse, trackball, touchpad,
etc.), a barcode scanner, a touch-screen incorporated into a
display, audio input devices (e.g., voice recognition systems,
microphones, etc.), and other types of input devices. In general,
use of the term "input device" is intended to include all possible
types of devices and mechanisms for inputting information into
computer system 1200. Additionally, user interface output devices
1214 can include a display subsystem, a printer, or non-visual
displays such as audio output devices, etc. The display subsystem
can be any known type of display device. In general, use of the
term "output device" is intended to include all possible types of
devices and mechanisms for outputting information from computer
system 1200.
Storage subsystem 1206 can include memory subsystem 1208 and
file/disk storage subsystem 1210. Subsystems 1208 and 1210
represent non-transitory computer-readable storage media that can
store program code and/or data that provide the functionality of
embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, memory
subsystem 1208 can include a number of memories including a main
RAM 1218 for storage of instructions and data during program
execution and a ROM 1220 in which fixed instructions may be stored.
File storage subsystem 1210 can provide persistent (i.e.,
non-volatile) storage for program and data files, and can include a
magnetic or solid-state hard disk drive, an optical drive along
with associated removable media (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD, Blu-Ray, etc.),
a removable flash memory-based drive or card, and/or other types of
storage media known in the art.
It should be appreciated that computer system 1200 is illustrative
and not intended to limit embodiments of the present disclosure.
Many other configurations having more or fewer components than
system 1200 are possible.
Illustrative methods and systems for controlling smart interconnect
devices and/or smart panels are described above. Some or all of
these systems and methods may, but need not, be implemented at
least partially by architectures such as those shown at least in
FIGS. 1-9 above. While many of the embodiments are described above
with reference to information and/or control signals, it should be
understood that any type of electronic content may be managed using
these techniques. Further, in the foregoing description, various
non-limiting examples were described. For purposes of explanation,
specific configurations and details are set forth in order to
provide a thorough understanding of the examples. However, it
should also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the examples
may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore,
well-known features were sometimes omitted or simplified in order
not to obscure the example being described.
The various embodiments further can be implemented in a wide
variety of operating environments, which in some cases can include
one or more user computers, computing devices or processing devices
which can be used to operate any of a number of applications. User
or client devices can include any of a number of personal
computers, such as desktop or laptop computers running a standard
operating system, as well as cellular, wireless and handheld
devices running mobile software and capable of supporting a number
of networking and messaging protocols.
Most embodiments utilize at least one network that would be
familiar to those skilled in the art for supporting communications
using any of a variety of commercially-available protocols, such as
TCP/IP, OSI, FTP, UPnP, NFS, CIFS, and AppleTalk. The network can
be, for example, a local area network, a wide-area network, a
virtual private network, the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, a
public switched telephone network, an infrared network, a wireless
network, and any combination thereof.
In embodiments utilizing a network server, the network server can
run any of a variety of server or mid-tier applications, including
HTTP servers, FTP servers, CGI servers, data servers, Java servers,
and business application servers. The server(s) also may be capable
of executing programs or scripts in response requests from user
devices, such as by executing one or more applications that may be
implemented as one or more scripts or programs written in any
programming language, such as Java.RTM., C, C# or C++, or any
scripting language, such as Perl, Python or TCL, as well as
combinations thereof. The server(s) may also include database
servers, including without limitation those commercially available
from Oracle.RTM., Microsoft.RTM., Sybase.RTM., and IBM.RTM..
The environment can include a variety of data stores and other
memory and storage media as discussed above. These can reside in a
variety of locations, such as on a storage medium local to (and/or
resident in) one or more of the computers or remote from any or all
of the computers across the network. In a particular set of
embodiments, the information may reside in a storage-area network
(SAN) familiar to those skilled in the art. Similarly, any
necessary files for performing the functions attributed to the
computers, servers or other network devices may be stored locally
and/or remotely, as appropriate. Where a system includes
computerized devices, each such device can include hardware
elements that may be electrically coupled via a bus, the elements
including, for example, at least one central processing unit (CPU),
at least one input device (e.g., a mouse, keyboard, controller,
touch screen or keypad), and at least one output device (e.g., a
display device, printer or speaker). Such a system may also include
one or more storage devices, such as disk drives, optical storage
devices, and solid-state storage devices such as RAM or ROM, as
well as removable media devices, memory cards, flash cards,
etc.
Such devices also can include a computer-readable storage media
reader, a communications device (e.g., a modem, a network card
(wireless or wired), an infrared communication device, etc.), and
working memory as described above. The computer-readable storage
media reader can be connected with, or configured to receive, a
non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, representing
remote, local, fixed, and/or removable storage devices as well as
storage media for temporarily and/or more permanently containing,
storing, transmitting, and retrieving computer-readable
information. The system and various devices also typically will
include a number of software applications, modules, services or
other elements located within at least one working memory device,
including an operating system and application programs, such as a
client application or browser. It should be appreciated that
alternate embodiments may have numerous variations from that
described above. For example, customized hardware might also be
used and/or particular elements might be implemented in hardware,
software (including portable software, such as applets) or both.
Further, connection to other computing devices such as network
input/output devices may be employed.
Non-transitory storage media and computer-readable storage media
for containing code, or portions of code, can include any
appropriate media known or used in the art such as, but not limited
to, volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media
implemented in any method or technology for storage of information
such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program
modules or other data, including RAM, ROM, Electrically Erasable
Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other
memory technology, CD-ROM, DVD or other optical storage, magnetic
cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic
storage devices or any other medium which can be used to store the
desired information and which can be accessed by the a system
device. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, a
person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other ways
and/or methods to implement the various embodiments. However,
computer-readable storage media does not include transitory media
such as carrier waves or the like.
The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in
an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. It will, however,
be evident that various modifications and changes may be made
thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of
the disclosure as set forth in the claims.
Other variations are within the spirit of the present disclosure.
Thus, while the disclosed techniques are susceptible to various
modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated
embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and have been
described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that
there is no intention to limit the disclosure to the specific form
or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover
all modifications, alternative constructions and equivalents
falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as defined
in the appended claims.
The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar referents
in the context of describing the disclosed embodiments (especially
in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to
cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated
herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising,"
"having," "including," and "containing" are to be construed as
open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,")
unless otherwise noted. The term "connected" is to be construed as
partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joined together,
even if there is something intervening. The phrase "based on"
should be understood to be open-ended, and not limiting in any way,
and is intended to be interpreted or otherwise read as "based at
least in part on," where appropriate. Recitation of ranges of
values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of
referring individually to each separate value falling within the
range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value
is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually
recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in
any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise
clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples,
or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein, is
intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the disclosure
and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the disclosure
unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should
be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to
the practice of the disclosure.
Disjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, or
Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood
within the context as used in general to present that an item,
term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof
(e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not
generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain
embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at
least one of Z to each be present. Additionally, conjunctive
language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z," unless
specifically stated otherwise, should also be understood to mean X,
Y, Z, or any combination thereof, including "X, Y, and/or Z."
Preferred embodiments of this disclosure are described herein,
including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the
disclosure. Variations of those preferred embodiments may become
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the
foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to
employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for
the disclosure to be practiced otherwise than as specifically
described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all
modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the
claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover,
any combination of the above-described elements in all possible
variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless
otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by
context.
All references, including publications, patent applications, and
patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the
same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically
indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its
entirety herein.
* * * * *
References